Sevilla reveal stance on Chelsea target Jules Kounde

Sevilla are unlikely to sanction the sale of Jules Kounde to Chelsea unless his €80m release clause is triggered.

The Frenchman has been the Blues' prime centre-back target, and it appeared that the club were close to landing him.

A deal of around €50m was verbally agreed, but Sevilla have since increased their valuation for their prized asset.

The Blues have not returned with a renewed offer today. It is now reported by The Star that Sevilla won't negotiate.

The La Liga club are determined to keep Kounde now. He will only leave if the €80m buy-out clause is activated.

The Blues appear unlikely to meet the price tag, and Thomas Tuchel could work with the current squad options.

The club recently sold Kurt Zouma to West Ham United, but they are still loaded with central defensive players.

They have Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen, Trevoh Chalobah among others.

Ethan Ampadu and Malang Sarr could be loaned out.